The Ethics Of Primark

FOLLOWING a BBC investigation, super-budget retailer Primark has axed three suppliers in Southern India after discovering they had sub-contracted work, including embroidery and sequin work, to children.

In wake of the move, the retailer has publicly insisted that its prices are so low because it does not overcharge its customer and that the affected garments represented 0.04 per cent of its worldwide sourcing.

"Primark is an ethical business that demands the highest standards from its suppliers. It has a strict Supplier Code of Conduct which expressly bans the use of child labour," it said in a statement.

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"In addition none of our suppliers is permitted to sub-contract without our specific consent and agreement. None of these suppliers is permitted to use home working. Under no circumstances would Primark ever knowingly permit such activities whether directly through its suppliers or through third party sub-contractors."

As well as extricating itself from the suppliers involved, the company said it was tightening controls over its remaining suppliers and announced the launch of a charitable initiative, the Primark Better Lives Foundation, to provide financial assistance to organisations devoted to improving the lives of young people.